It's better you know ahead of time to be on the lookout for these fun ruiners.

Who's ready for a long three-day weekend? We've worked so hard since Easter... We deserve this! However, the unofficial official kickoff to the summer season could easily be ruined by some things. Things that could easily be avoided if you just keep your eye out for them.

5. BBQ Flareups

Nothing is better than firing up the grill for the first official summer cookout. There's just one problem, you haven't touched the grill since Labor Day. Clean your grill and inspect it for any malfunctions before lighting it up. This will prevent any big flareups and any trips to the emergency room. Oh, and never leave a hot grill unattended, especially with kids around.

4. Traffic

I can't tell you how many times I got ready to go on a long weekend road trip and seven minutes into the trip, I'm stuck in bumper to bumper traffic. Plan your trip ahead of time with a traffic app. Also check your local news sources, like 710KEEL.com for any updates on construction, closures and accidents. And remember to drive with respect for others on the road. Don't be a jerk.

3. Sunburns

It's been fairly cloudy around Shreveport-Bossier the past few weeks, but that doesn't mean you can't still get sunburned. Lather on the sunscreen before heading to the lake, pool, Mudbug Madness, etc. Tan lines can be cute, but not when you're peeling three weeks prior. Protect yourself from the sun.

2. Mosquitos

Sometimes these blood suckers are unavoidable, but a little OFF can certainly help. With so many options for bug repellent there really isn't an excuse for not trying. There's spray, lotion, clip-on, candle, Tiki torch, etc. With the threat of Zika virus out there, your best bet is to protect yourself. If you're like me, you will probably still get bit a time or two (because I'm so sweet), but at least you have limited the number of times.

1. Mudbug Illness

Mudbugs are delicious. Mudbugs can be eaten in large quantities, but just like any other food or alcohol, know your limits. You can overdose on mudbugs. And who wants to be on the couch all weekend feeling sick from all of the crawfish you ate. Practice some restraint at Mudbug Madness to make sure you can attend the following day. It's a marathon, not a sprint.

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